Global Excellence and Mobility Scholarship (GEMS)

This PhD opportunity at Monash University Malaysia is offered under the Global Excellence and Mobility Scholarship (GEMS) 2026, focusing on cross-regional mechanisms in schizophrenia and autism spectrum disorder (ASD) using multi-omics approaches in patient-derived hiPSC models. The research project establishes hiPSC lines from ethnically diverse Malaysian donors with schizophrenia/ASD and matched controls, harmonised with Australian standards. Differentiated cortical neurons and organoids will be profiled using genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, and high-content imaging to map cellular and network phenotypes.

Integrated analyses will identify disease modules related to synaptic signalling, connectivity, and neurotransmission, and quantify shared versus population-specific features by comparing Malaysian and Australian cohorts. The project outputs include quality-controlled donor lines, standard operating procedures, interoperable datasets, and candidate biomarkers that will inform subsequent projects. The research supplies human-relevant effect sizes and endpoints necessary for AI modelling and mechanism-guided therapeutic testing for major neuropsychiatric conditions.

This project is part of Monash University Malaysia’s Graduate Research Thematic Cluster, MAP-Neuro: Diverse hiPSC Models, AI Analytics & Mechanism-Guided Therapeutics. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in neuroscience, stem cell biology, or bioinformatics, with hands-on experience in cell culture, molecular techniques, or imaging. Candidates should be motivated to learn integrative analysis of genomics and proteomics data and passionate about advancing human-relevant, equitable mental health research. Preferred degrees include neuroscience, biotechnology, biomedical science, or bioinformatics.

The GEMS scholarship provides full funding, including tuition and stipend, and features regional mobility with an immersive year at Monash University Australia, Monash University Indonesia, or the Indian Institute of Technology Bombay (up to 9 months). Scholars will have access to Monash University’s global network of research expertise and infrastructure during their candidature period. Eligibility requires a minimum academic qualification of First Class Honours (H1) or its equivalence (H1E) recognised by Monash University Malaysia and satisfaction of English language requirements.

Applicants are encouraged to contact the main supervisor, Associate Professor Satoshi Ogawa, with their academic background and achievements to determine fit for the research topic. If suitable, applications should be submitted via the provided link, selecting the Global Excellence and Mobility Scholarship (GEMS) and entering the same research topic as advertised. More information about GEMS and the application submission guide is available online. The application deadline is July 31, 2026.